Top Schools for Film and Cinema Studies

Read about film and cinema studies programs, through which students can learn how to direct, operate a camera and become familiar with media forms and theater. In addition to profiles of three top-notch institutions, this resource includes a handy list of other schools in the United States that offer programs in film and cinema studies.

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School Information

The three universities summarized below include two national universities and a private art college with fine arts and multimedia programs. Each of the three schools offers both undergraduate and graduate programs in film and cinema studies, including majors in movie and television production, new media and screenwriting.

Top U.S. Schools with Film and Cinema Studies Programs

1. University of Southern California in Los Angeles

The University of Southern California (USC), the state's oldest private research school, ranked 23rd among national universities in 2011, according to U.S. News and World Report. The university is home to the USC School of Cinematic Arts, one of the most prestigious film programs in the country. At the school, students can pursue programs in film and television production, screenwriting and interactive media, among other areas. Individual programs culminate in an undergraduate or a graduate degree.

2. University of California in Los Angeles

The University of California in Los Angeles (UCLA) is a public research school that U.S. News and World Report ranked 25th among national universities in 2011. Programs in film and cinema studies are available through the UCLA School of Theatre, Film and Television. Undergraduate majors include digital media, film, television and theater. Undergraduate and graduate degrees are also available in playwriting, animation and media studies. To complement their majors, students can also pursue professional programs in screenwriting and producing.

3. Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, CA

The Art Center College of Design is a private institution that U.S. News and World Report ranked 11th on its list for schools with top fine arts programs and 12th among schools with top multimedia programs in 2011. Undergraduate programs in film and cinema studies include film and entertainment design. A master's degree in broadcast cinema is also available. Additionally, the Art Center College of Design serves as a vocational school for returning U.S. soldiers who want to work in the art and design field.